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May 2026

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On Monday 18th May, as part of the wider Ka Kā te Rama initiative, Horouta Whānau Ora and Ngāti Porou Oranga partnered with Kouma Samson and LooseChange Charitable Trust to deliver a powerful Hauora Wānanga focused onbuilding hauora resilience through education, movement, and positive connection.

Held at Te Waha o Rerekohu Area School, the wānanga brought together rangatahi from Years 10–13 for a day of learning, inspiration, and whakawhanaungatanga.

Throughout the day, students took part in sessions covering nutrition, the importance of staying active, goal setting, positive habits, leadership, and creating a strong vision for their future. The kaupapa was designed to encourage rangatahi to build discipline, confidence, and healthy lifestyles while empowering them to become the best version of themselves.

The Hauora Wānanga is a condensed version of the wider Loose ChangeCharitable Trust school programme, which has been delivered throughout TeTairāwhiti in recent years using sport, fitness, movement, and team bonding as tools to support and uplift rangatahi.

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Adding to the impact of the day was special guest Kevin Locke, a NewZealand former professional rugby league player, who connected with students through honest and inspiring kōrero about his life journey, the adversity hehas overcome, and the discipline and mindset required to succeed at the highest level of professional sport.

Kevin also surprised students with tickets to an upcoming Warriors home game in Auckland, creating an unforgettable ending to an already impactful day.

The wānanga was a great success, with rangatahi walking away feelingin spired, motivated, and hopeful about their futures. The positive responsefrom students and staff reinforced the importance of continuing to grow kaupapasuch as this across our communities.

Ngā mihi nui to Kouma Samson, Loose Change Charitable Trust, Te Waha o Rerekohu Area School, Kevin Locke, and everyone involved in supporting the success of the kaupapa and our rangatahi.

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